British researchers create mini organs from amniotic fluid stem cells: Report

Researchers from University College London and Great Ormond Street Hospital in the United Kingdom have been successful in harvesting stem cells from amniotic fluid to create working, miniature versions of real organs, the Associated Press is reporting.

The mini organs can be used during experimental trials for medical treatments or to study how the real organs work while both sick and healthy, the report said.

Samples from 12 pregnancies were collected from patients during routine prenatal testing, the report said.

Collecting cells shed by the fetus, a normal occurrence during pregnancy, the scientists were able to differentiate stem cells for the kidneys, intestines and lungs, the report said.

Researchers are hoping the mini organs could eventually help doctors monitor and treat congenital conditions before birth and develop personalized therapies for a baby in the womb, the report said.